Election 2012: Everything You Need to Know about Voting Today, Finding Your Polling Place, Registering at Polls, Returning Absentee Ballots and More

Where is my polling place?
The easiest way to find your polling place is by visiting the Iowa Secretary of State’s web site. Type your ZIP code into the search field, then your house address and so forth.

Here’s a list of Polk County precincts and you can get directions here.  Here’s a list of Dallas County precincts.

I think I’m registered to vote, but I’m not sure. Where can I check?
Here’s how to check.

If I’m not registered, does that mean I’m out of luck?
No. You can register at the polls on Election Day. First, find your polling place. You’ll need to prove who you are and where you live; the easiest way is to bring a valid driver’s license with your current address on it, but other valid forms of identification are outlined on the Secretary of State web site. If you are unable to provide such documentation, you may bring an attester – a registered voter from your precinct – who will vouch for you.  Both you and the attester will be required to sign an oath swearing the statements being made are true.

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Can I still do early voting?
Yes. The Polk County Election Office is open today from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 120 Second Ave., Suite A, Des Moines.

The Dallas County Election Office is also open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today. It’s at 910 Court St. in Adel.

On Tuesday, you may only vote at the polls.

I received an absentee ballot but have not yet returned it. Is it too late?
No, but make sure it’s postmarked by midnight tonight, Nov. 5 and it must be received in the auditor’s office no later than noon on Monday, Nov. 12.

What hours are polls open?
Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

What state and federal races are on the ballot?
A full list of candidates for president, Congress and state legislative races is found on the Secretary of State web site. There’s also a list of judges up for retention, including Iowa Supreme Court Justice David Wiggins.

The Polk County and Dallas County ballots are found on their respective auditors’ office web sites.

Are there any propositions on the ballot?
Yes, voters in Polk County will be asked to vote on a measure known as the Polk County Water & Land Legacy bond issue. If a 60 percent supermajority of voters approve it, the Polk County Board of Supervisors would be authorized to issue bonds over the next 20 years for:

• Protecting water quality of rivers, lakes, and streams, including the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers and their tributaries.
• Protecting drinking water sources, wildlife habitat and natural areas.
• Protecting land to help prevent flooding.
• Improving parks and trails.